Gary Willard Stafford

He was born November 22, 1942 in Peoria to Willard “Buck” and Virginia (Closen) Stafford. He married Kathleen Parker on July 22, 1977 at St. Matthews Church in Farmington, she survives.

Gary is also survived by his daughter, Courtney (Eric) Bruce of Edwards and son, Nate (Xochitl) Stafford of Trivoli; four grandchildren, Colin and Eva Bruce and Isla and Willow Stafford.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Gary graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Bradley University, with his degree in engineering. After college, he began his career at LeTourneau Westinghouse, later transitioning to Komatsu Mining Systems, where he retired in 1999 after a career that spanned over three decades. Starting as a draft engineer, Gary’s dedication and expertise propelled him to Chief Engineer and ultimately Vice President of Engineering, a position from which he retired in 1999.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gary was a proud member of the Peoria Skeet and Trap Club. His skills in shooting were legendary, with his greatest achievement being the Illinois State Singles Trap Shoot Championship, which he won at the age of 20 in 1963. That same year, he was part of the 1963 Grand American State Team Champions.

Gary’s love for the outdoors extended far beyond competitive shooting. He was an avid fly fisherman and a passionate hunter, especially for big game, ducks, and upland birds. He loved the challenge and also enjoyed tying his own flies. His love for outdoor pursuits began with his father, Buck, who introduced him to these activities at a young age. This passion for the outdoors was passed down to his son and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Friday, December 13, 2024 at 11 a.m. at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel, Peoria, and visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Pastor Jack Thompson will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made in memory of Gary to Mayo Clinic for cancer and kidney research.

Donations can be made online or by mail:

Mail: Checks can be made directly to Mayo Clinic and sent to: Mayo Clinic, Department of Development, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN

Online: Please visit https://philanthropy.mayoclinic.org/donatemc and complete the online form.

Please indicate when making the gift that it is a memorial gift in memory of Gary Stafford for the purpose of cancer and kidney research.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.Davison-Fulton.com.